Denouncement Pyre’s World Cremation is one of the best black metal albums I’ve heard in quite some time. It’s not at all surprising that the band hails from Australia, the land of all things filthy ‘n’ furious when it comes to heavy metal. While many of their countrymen emphasize thrash over black metal, Denouncement Pyre does just the opposite, cultivating a heavily blackened sound with hints of thrash creeping up around its rough edges. I got in contact with D-Pyre mastermind Decaylust for the following interrogation.
THKD: Denouncement Pyre started in 2003, yet World Cremation is your first full length. Why did it take so long to release an album?
Decaylust: We have previously released a demo, 2 x 7”eps, a mini album & a split LP, so we have been very active since the bands conception. The album took a while to surface as we have had various line-up changes and some other delays too, which are of less relevance now. Finally we are at the point where we want to be. World Cremation is a positive step and provides a gateway for us to move forward into the next stage for this band.
THKD: Where and when was World Cremation recorded? What can you tell us about the process?
D: The drums were recorded in October of 2009, in a separate studio to where the rest of the recording was completed. I was present in the room with InVotan when he recorded the drums, as we wanted to try and channel a similar atmosphere as in our rehearsals. I had to take some time out after the drums sessions due to other commitments, so the rest of the album was completed during January-February of 2010. We recorded at Burning Leather studios with the assistance of former D.PYRE member J.E. We tried a few new things in the studio this time & I am pleased with the end result.
THKD: What can you tell us about the overarching lyrical themes/concepts behind the album?
D: World Cremation refers to both a destructive & creative force. This duality is present in all forms of existence, and the album deals with this theme and the choice it presents to the individual. One can be destined to a life of slavery, a slave to themselves & to the pre-determined world around them. Or one can conquer & harness the destructive/creative force to shape the reality around them. Draconian nature aligns one with the left hand path. He who wills to become a creator, rather than a product of creation.
THKD: Specifically, what is the song “Black Womb of Magdalene” about? Is the title a reference to the biblical Mary Magdalene?
D: You are right that the name Magdalene is from the biblical reference, however it is used here more as a metaphor or symbol rather than relating to anything specific regarding its source. The womb as a symbol of creation, or the source of, and that Shekhinah, an extension of the divine (white) light that manifests in the material world, is pollution to the individual’s nature, a falsity rather than something that is holy or divine. Magdalene is a whore, disease-ridden as the corrupting influence of the divine light that sits on the right hand side.
THKD: I’m also curious about “A Banner Drenched in Blood”. Can you shed some light on this song also?
D: Resistance to the slave state that is imposed on all. The left-hand path is one of challenges and struggle. The banner is raised high, iron prevails, and the blood is a symbol of this eternal struggle.
THKD: Do you consider Denouncement Pyre to be a Satanic band? What does Satan mean to you and how does this tie in to what you do?
D: This style of music is one that is best used to create certain energy, to capture the essence of something powerful & dark. As the music, lyrics, themes, etc are an extension of the greater self it can become a vehicle for something that resides deep within the individual. You can describe this in many ways, just as it can manifest through and in different forms. The word I would use to describe this essence is Satan.
THKD: How would you describe Denouncement Pyre’s songwriting process?
D: Usually I will write most of the music & demo the songs on my own. Then they are taken to the rehearsal room and worked on as a collective. Some ideas are already solidified before then, but there is also some room to experiment once other members are involved. On past releases previous members of the band wrote the music also, however with the album I wrote the basis of all ideas + the lyrics.
THKD: Denouncement Pyre currently operates as a duo. What are the advantages/disadvantages of having just two members in the band?
D: It made the rehearsal & recording process a lot easier as there were less people to rely on. As we have not been playing live there is no reason in involving more members than what are needed. There weren’t any disadvantages at all.
THKD: The album cover features what appears to be an eclipse with a beheaded angel and serpents writhing around it. What does this represent and who came up with the concept?
D: The cover artwork was painted by Andrei Bouzikov under my direction. It ties in with the album well as the serpents & angel represent duality, 2 opposing symbols yet from a certain perspective represent the one & the same. It also symbolises the process and source of creation, as you have noted the ‘eclipse’ or as I would see it, the abyss after the light, and the extension from the great abyss to the material plane. The angel is headless, or without identity, because it is a symbol rather than anything ‘actual’. It may not be so common when compared to majority of underground album covers, however it really fit with my vision for this album so I don’t give a fuck how others perceive it.
THKD: Is Denouncement Pyre influenced at all musically or lyrically by your Australian heritage/surroundings?
D: Not really. We are dealing with energy which source is more primal than anything else, regardless of where we are located.
THKD: You’re also involved in several other bands. Does this make it difficult to find time for Denouncement Pyre or is this band your priority?
D: Denouncement Pyre is my main priority. I also perform vocals in Hunters Moon and have been a live session guitarist for Nocturnal Graves. It’s no problem to manage all, though D.P. occupies most of my time.
THKD: Your myspace page states that you have no plans to tour or play live. Do you forsee any Denouncement Pyre live rituals taking place in the future?
D: There has been a lot of interest in getting the band onto the stage again. For the last couple of years we haven’t performed live however this may change in the future. Not much else to say on this, keep your eyes open!
THKD: What does the rest of 2010 have in store for Denouncement Pyre?
D: Work has already commenced on the 2nd album. There is some news surrounding the line up as more members will be involved with this next recording, however all will be revealed in due time.
THKD: Are there any final thoughts you’d like to add?
D: Visit www.hellsheadbangers.com for more info on World Cremation
nex est sanctus
Nice.
Great to see an interview with this band.